Ange Postecoglou has lifted the lid on his relationship with Dermot Desmond.
Desmond, Celtic’s majority shareholder, is more of a silent force behind the scenes. His appearances at Celtic Park are rare, yet his influence is undeniable. Last week, he was spotted at the stadium, a sighting that sparked a wave of speculation among the Celtic faithful.
However, Postecoglou, in his characteristic straightforward style, provided some clarity. He revealed that he regularly communicates with Desmond, who has been a consistent source of support since his arrival at the club.
Two years ago, it was Desmond who gave the nod for Postecoglou to assume the role of Celtic’s manager. It was a decision that was met with skepticism at the time, but the ensuing years have proven the wisdom of Desmond’s choice.
Under Postecoglou’s guidance, Celtic has undergone a remarkable transformation. The club has clinched four trophies in the past two years, a testament to the manager’s tactical prowess and the players’ dedication. Now, with the prospect of securing a fifth trophy out of the six available, there’s no doubt Ange was the right choice.
Desmond may be a silent majority shareholder, but his impact on Celtic is profound. He has chosen every Celtic manager since Martin O’Neill.
Speaking to Herald Sport, the Celtic manager spoke about the relationship:
It’s been quite a two years since that first talk with Dermot,” the 57-year-old said. “We have just accomplished so much in that space of time.
“It was a lot different when I walked in but we have done a lot, from the success we have had on the field to the players we have brought in. The way we play our football and the general feeling around the club, with the connection with the supporters, has been a credit to everyone.
“From my perspective I couldn’t be happier with the support I have received to try to get this club back to where it has been before, and was for a long time. The fact we could do it really quickly is a credit to everyone.
“Dermot was the first person I spoke to with regards to the club. He’s very influential and has been very supportive of me, personally and within the club.
“Particularly when we didn’t have the smoothest of starts. It didn’t last very long but it was still a difficult beginning. During that time, he was immensely supportive of me.
“I knew that he and the club would have my back and support me until I got the club to where we needed to be. I enjoy a great relationship with Dermot and his family.
“He’s a very important part of Celtic and has been for a long time. It’s been great that I have been able to repay that faith he showed me right from the start.
“We are in regular contact with each other and that’s because Dermot loves Celtic, he loves talking about the games and how the club is going in general.
“It’s not like I have to update him with everything, that’s what I do with [chief-executive] Michael Nicholson.
“He lets us get on with our roles of running the club but Dermot is really passionate about Celtic and about football. I don’t know if he’s in contact with me more or less than previous managers.
“I don’t know if I’m a favourite or not! But he has treated me very well.”
A source close to the club told CeltsAreHere that Desmond is at Celtic Park more often than you’d think. It just so happened someone caught a picture of him this time around.
